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Washington, DC – Children’s National Health System today awarded Amy and Bret Baier the inaugural Joseph E. Robert, Jr., Prize in Philanthropy. Named for businessman, philanthropist, and advocate Joseph E. Robert, Jr., the Prize recognizes an individual or family who has improved the lives of children through transformational philanthropy and advocacy for children's health.

“Joe Robert’s legacy lives on throughout Children’s National,” said Kurt Newman, MD, president and CEO. “Amy and Bret embody what Joe was all about – innovation, thinking big, and giving back. They are an inspiration to others who want to improve the lives of children.”

Through their generosity and active leadership, Amy and Bret have advanced Children’s National mission, especially for children with heart disease. The Baiers established the Paul Francis Baier Comprehensive Media Room, which enables critical care medical staff to access and review diagnostic images and consult in real time with experts around the world. Most recently, they made a gift to the Cardiac Interventional MRI Project that transformed the treatment of children undergoing cardiac catheterization.

They have spearheaded many fundraising activities for Children’s National. Bret has emceed the Children’s Ball since 2008, and the Baiers are co-hosting the 2014 Children’s Ball. Amy serves on the Children’s Hospital Foundation’s board, and since 2007 has co-chaired the Children’s Circle of Care, a group of philanthropists dedicated to donating at least $10,000 annually. Under her leadership, the program has grown by 40 percent. She co-chaired the 2012 Children’s Ball.

Joseph E. Robert, Jr., who lost his battle to cancer in December 2011, left a legacy that has transformed the way Children’s National care for kids. His visionary leadership helped create the Joseph E. Robert, Jr. Center for Surgical Care and the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, which is improving outcomes and changing lives worldwide.

About Children’s National Health System

Children’s National Health System, based in Washington, DC, has been serving the nation’s children since 1870. Children’s National is Magnet® designated, and is consistently ranked among the top pediatric hospitals by U.S.News & World Report. Home to the Children’s Research Institute and the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children’s National is one of the nation’s top NIH-funded pediatric institutions. With a community-based pediatric network, seven regional outpatient centers, an ambulatory surgery center, two emergency rooms, an acute care hospital, and collaborations throughout the region, Children’s National is recognized for its expertise and innovation in pediatric care and as an advocate for all children. For more information, visit ChildrensNational.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.